Stockholm City: Visit Icebar and Vasamuseum

Stockholm City: Visit Icebar and Vasamuseum
Location: Stockholm County, Sweden
Country: Sweden
Rating: 3.5/5 (based on 8 reviews)
Supplier: Stockholm Tour by Kino
Duration: Around 2 hours (check availability for specific start times)

A Quick Look at the Experience
If you’re after a quick dose of Swedish history combined with a splash of cool fun, this tour offers just that. For around two hours, you’ll visit the Vasa Museum, home to the only preserved 17th-century warship, and then stroll through Old Town to reach the famous Icebar made entirely of ice, part of the Ice Hotel in Norrland. The tour is priced at a point where you get guided insights and admission to the museum and Icebar—though, as some reviews point out, the total cost might add up when including entry fees.

Two details really shine for us. First, the Vasa Museum is a standout because of its impressive preservation of a ship that sank just one mile after leaving port—an engineering marvel with a fascinating story of ambition and tragedy. Second, the Icebar itself is a marvel—completely crafted from frozen water, with a constantly changing interior design from year to year, offering a genuinely unique environment to enjoy a drink.

One thing to consider, however: the timing and reservations can be a challenge. The Icebar’s new hours from October 2024 mean you’ll need to plan carefully to ensure you get enough time inside, as the experience is limited to approximately 30-45 minutes.

This tour suits those interested in Swedish maritime history and quirky icy experiences—but be aware that some travelers have been disappointed by overcrowding or limited time at the museum or Icebar. If you prefer unhurried exploration, this might feel rushed.

Key Points

• History buffs will enjoy the detailed story of the Vasa warship and its impressive preservation.
• Ice lovers will appreciate the Icebar’s unique ice-crafted decor and environment.
• Timing matters; check the latest hours for the Icebar to maximize your visit.
• Part of the appeal is the combination of cultural sights and a fun, frosty environment.
• Be prepared for additional costs for entrance fees to the museum and Icebar.
• The tour is accessible and includes a guided commentary in English, Swedish, or Arabic.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Itinerary Overview

The adventure kicks off at the Vasa Museum, where your guide—presumably friendly and knowledgeable—will lead you through the story of the 17th-century ship, Vasa. Built over 2.5 years, this vessel sank after just a mile at sea, sinking due to a sudden gale. Today, it’s the crown jewel of Stockholm’s maritime displays, with a well-preserved hull and fascinating exhibits explaining shipbuilding techniques of the era.

From there, you’ll walk just five minutes to a nearby ferry. This ten-minute boat ride across the waters of Stockholm is pleasant—offering some lovely views of the city’s waterways—before arriving in Old Town (Gamla Stan). The guided walk through this historic district features cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and stories of royalty, making it both entertaining and educational.

Visiting the Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is a highlight for history enthusiasts and families alike. It’s a compact but comprehensive exhibit that lets you get close to the ship’s remains, and understand the political and technical ambitions that led to its construction. We loved the way the guide explained the ship’s construction, sinking, and subsequent recovery, giving context that makes the ship come alive.

One reviewer noted, “We enjoyed the museum. It was very interesting.” However, another pointed out that the time allocated—around 45 minutes—is quite limited for a full appreciation, especially if you want to explore at your own pace. If you’re a history buff, you might wish for more time, but for most, this brief visit hits the main points.

Crossing to Old Town and the Icebar

Next, the group walks to the ferry and then to Old Town. This part of the tour is quite charming; the narrow alleys and historic buildings evoke the medieval heart of Stockholm. Your guide offers insights into the city’s past, adding depth to the sightseeing experience.

The highlight, of course, is the Icebar Stockholm by ICEHOTEL. It’s an iconic venue—completely made out of ice, from the walls to the glasses (which, be warned, are very slippery). The interior is designed anew each year, which keeps the experience fresh and visually engaging. You’ll be provided with a warm coat and gloves, but dress comfortably—warm shoes are a must, as the temperature is a chilling -7°C (19.4°F).

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Inside the Icebar

Spending about 30-45 minutes inside, you can enjoy a drink—usually included in the entrance fee—served in a glass carved from ice. It’s a cool, memorable experience, perfect for those who like unusual environments. The design changes annually, so no two visits are exactly the same, which adds to the appeal.

However, a significant point from reviews is that reservation is crucial; overcrowding can prevent access. One traveler shared, “It was overcrowded and not having a reservation. We were denied entry,” which underlines the importance of planning ahead, especially during peak times.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing: From October 2024, the Icebar opens at 3 p.m., so check the schedule before booking. If your schedule is tight, this could mean a shorter museum visit or a rush at the Icebar.
• Cost: Entrance to the Vasa Museum runs between 190 SEK and 240 SEK, and the Icebar entry is 265 SEK, which includes a drink. Remember, these are additional costs on top of your tour fee.
• Payment: You pay in advance by voucher or cash—Euro, Dollar, or SEK. Be prepared for this to avoid delays on the day.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, but keep in mind that certain activities, like the Icebar experience, might require some mobility.

What Reviewers Say

While most reviews are positive, some mention logistical issues. One traveler felt, “We enjoyed the museum but were disappointed because the Icebar was overcrowded and we couldn’t get in.” Others note that the short time at the museum and the price might feel steep, especially when considering the extra fees for entrance.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience suits travelers interested in Swedish maritime history who want a quick, guided overview of the Vasa ship, combined with a fun visit to the Icebar. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a brisk pace and are prepared to reserve ahead. If you’re looking for a relaxed, in-depth exploration or traveling with young children, you might find it a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compact, engaging snapshot of Stockholm’s maritime heritage and one of its most whimsical attractions. The Vasa Museum is a true highlight, giving a striking glimpse into 17th-century shipbuilding—and the story of a ship that sank just after setting sail. The Icebar provides a playful and memorable environment, especially if you like the idea of drinking from a glass made of ice.

The value hinges on your interest in these specific attractions and your timing—reservations are key, especially for the Icebar. The tour’s guided element adds context and makes navigation through the city straightforward, especially if you’re new to Stockholm’s layout.

If you’re someone who delights in small group guided tours that combine culture with fun, this could be a good fit. Just be prepared for some additional costs and the possibility of limited time at each stop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to reserve the Icebar in advance?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended because the Icebar can be quite crowded, and access isn’t guaranteed without a booking.

How long do I get inside the Icebar?
You’ll have approximately 30-45 minutes to enjoy the environment and a drink, which is enough to experience the unique atmosphere.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 18 years, likely because of alcohol consumption regulations and the cold environment.

What is included in the tour price?
The guided tour, entrance to the Vasa Museum, ferry ride, guided walk through Old Town, and entry to the Icebar with a drink are included. Entrance fees for the museum and Icebar are paid separately.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but remember that certain experiences like the Icebar could involve some mobility considerations.

How do I pay for the additional entrance fees?
You pay in advance via voucher or cash using Euro, Dollar, or SEK. Be sure to have your payment sorted beforehand.

What should I wear to the Icebar?
Dress warmly—layered clothing, comfortable shoes, and gloves are provided, but warm shoes are essential for comfort during the icy visit.

This tour combines the best of Swedish maritime history with a frosty, fun environment that’s perfect for a quick, memorable experience. With some planning and reservation, you’ll walk away with stories of a sunken ship and a chilled drink in a glass of ice—quite the conversation starters!

You can check availability for your dates here: